Do You Practice What You Preach? A Lesson From Matthew 23

“The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.”

Matthew 23:2-3

Dear Friends,

“Do what I say, not what I do” is a phrase that has been passed down through generations – often with a chuckle. I remember my dad telling me that my grandfather used to say this to him when he was growing up. While the phrase may sound humorous, it isn’t an effective way to lead or teach. The best teachers don’t just give instructions; they model the behavior they want to see.

Practice What You Preach

Unfortunately, throughout history leaders have often failed to practice what they preach. The Pharisees of Jesus’ day were a prime example. These men had the important responsibility of teaching the people God’s laws, but they adopted the “do what I say, not what I do” attitude.

Rather than modeling appropriate behavior, they created additional burdensome caveats to the stated laws. They required others to carefully obey these man-made regulations, but refused to comply with the regulations themselves. 

Jesus warned the crowds and His disciples to beware of these hypocrites. They didn’t care about pleasing God, but only about appropriating honor for themselves. Everything they did was meant for show and recognition. Although God commanded internal holiness, these men cared only for outward appearances. 

They loved the places of honor, so they would dress extravagantly for every occasion. They commandeered the most important seats at banquets and at the synagogue, their place of worship, and expected to be addressed as Rabbi and Father, respected titles meant only for God.

Actions With Wrong Motivations

Today, there are still many people who live this way with actions stemming from wrong motivations. Church attendance becomes an avenue for more business connections. Flattery is used to climb social or corporate ladders. Even charitable deeds can be performed with the hope of receiving praise and admiration.

I remember a time when my family was invited to someone’s house for dinner, only to realize there was an ulterior motive. When we declined to purchase the products they were selling we were never invited again. The hosts’ kindness and hospitality were not genuine but deceptive. The duplicity of their words and actions revealed the true motives of their hearts. They were not after a friendship, but a transaction.    

Jesus Rebukes the Religious Leaders

Jesus, lamenting over the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, called them out on their self-righteous attitude. Instead of leading people to God, they were blind guides leading people astray. In a scathing rebuke Jesus said, “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to Hell? . . . [you killed the prophets and] upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth.” 

Before leaving the city, Jesus looked out over Jerusalem, the capital of God’s chosen nation, and wept. The leaders were corrupt, the people deceived, and the city on the verge of destruction. They could recite God’s laws, but they refused to obey them.

I often wonder how Jesus views our generation. Does He see a people striving to live out their faith, or does He see those who say, “Do as I say, not as I do”?

Be Doers of the Word

The book of James is clear: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). Faith isn’t just about knowing the right thing to say—it’s about living it out daily.

Whether in your relationships with your children, students, coworkers, or friends, you must ensure that your actions align with your words. When you practice what you preach, you not only honor God but also leave a genuine and lasting impact on the world around you.

Personal Reflection

Take a moment to reflect: Is there an area in your life where you need to align your actions with your faith? Ask God to help you to practice what you preach today.

Love,

Mama

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